Ruling Party Leader Jang Dong-hyeok Once Defended in Gwangju Legal Scandal
Ruling Party Leader Jang Dong-hyeok Once Defended in Gwangju Legal Scandal
A legal scandal in Gwangju, previously handled by People Power Party leader Jang Dong-hyeok during his tenure as a presiding judge at the Gwangju District Court, is once again in the spotlight. On October 30, 2025, the Supreme Court is scheduled to deliver its verdict at 11:15 AM regarding former judges-turned-lawyers, Mr. A and Mr. B, indicted for violating the Attorney-at-Law Act, drawing significant public attention. Jang Dong-hyeok presided over the case in 2019 as a presiding judge at the Gwangju District Court. While Jang admitted to phone conversations with lawyers involved in the case, he has consistently maintained that no favors were solicited. The upcoming Supreme Court ruling is expected to shed light on the truth of the matter. Political circles suggest that Jang's involvement in the case as a judge could have significant repercussions, given his current position as the leader of the People Power Party. Legal circles anticipate that the Supreme Court ruling will have a substantial impact on the legal profession and political landscape.
During his time as a presiding judge at the Gwangju District Court, Jang Dong-hyeok oversaw the trial of lawyers accused of violating the Attorney-at-Law Act, in connection with a legal broker. The case exposed the dark side of the legal profession at the time, with key issues being preferential treatment for former judges and the involvement of legal brokers. Jang stated that he strived to make fair and objective judgments during the trial and handled the case according to the law and principles. However, some criticized Jang's phone calls with the lawyers as inappropriate. Jang clarified that these were simple inquiries and had nothing to do with soliciting favors. Ahead of the Supreme Court ruling on October 30, 2025, Jang said, "I hope for a wise decision from the Supreme Court," while remaining tight-lipped. However, political and legal circles are speculating on the potential impact of the ruling on Jang's political standing. Within the People Power Party, there are concerns that the ruling could negatively affect the party's image.
The Supreme Court ruling is seen as an opportunity to send a warning to the entire legal profession, beyond simply determining the guilt or innocence of the two lawyers. If the Supreme Court overturns the lower court's decision and finds the lawyers guilty, it could curb the practice of preferential treatment for former judges and the activities of legal brokers. Conversely, an acquittal could be interpreted as respecting the autonomy and independence of the legal profession, but there are concerns that it could deepen public distrust in the law. Jang Dong-hyeok may also face political accountability depending on the outcome of the Supreme Court ruling. If the Supreme Court finds the lawyers guilty and reveals issues with Jang's past rulings, the People Power Party could face strong criticism, including demands for the party leader's resignation. However, Jang stated, "I will humbly accept whatever the outcome and do my best to become a politician who meets the public's expectations." In this situation, the People Power Party is maintaining a cautious stance to minimize the impact of the case on the party.
Meanwhile, while the Democratic Party of Korea is refraining from official comments on the case, it is reportedly internally critical of Jang Dong-hyeok's past actions. The Democratic Party is closely monitoring the Supreme Court ruling and may increase its attacks on Jang's political moves. President Lee Jae-myung of the Republic of Korea stated that the case "should be handled strictly according to the law and principles," taking a principled stance. However, it is reported that the Presidential Office is closely watching the potential impact of the case on the political situation. The Supreme Court ruling is a significant issue that could have a major impact on the legal and political worlds, as well as society as a whole. Therefore, the Supreme Court must reveal the truth of the case through fair and objective judgment and restore public trust. Jang Dong-hyeok must also humbly accept the ruling and work harder to become a politician who meets the public's expectations. With all eyes on the Supreme Court's decision, public interest is focused on what conclusion will be reached.
